Serzone is a brand name for a class of drug called nefazodone. Nefazodone is prescribed for the reduction of physical and psychological symptoms of anxiety, depression and other related disorders. It is manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, and comes in 50 mg, 100 mg, 150mg, 200mg, and 250mg dosages.

Serzone has been discontinued and is no longer sold in the US since June 14, 2004 because of declining sales. However, this doesn’t affect the sale of other versions of nefazodone.

Side Effects of Serzone

Serzone may have the following side effects:

• Light-headedness
• Sleepiness
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Problems with vision
• Constipation
• Weakness

If you experience:

• Jaundice,
• Nausea,
• Abdominal pain,
• Loss of appetite for at least several days, or
• Unusually dark urine

See your doctor as soon as possible.

The following should not take Serzone:

• Those who have liver problems or have been stopped from using Serzone because of a liver injury
• Those who are pregnant
• Those who are breastfeeding

Serious Risks: Liver Damage

The FDA directed Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. in December 2001 to include a boxed warning on the Serzone label, indicating that there are rare cases of developing serious liver problems as a result of taking Serzone.

In March 2002, the FDA issued a warning to the public based on reported cases of the development of life-threatening liver diseases in some patients taking Serzone. Out of the 109 cases reported, at least 23 suffered liver failure. Liver failure is estimated to be one in every 250,000 to 300,000 Serzone users, which is 3 to 4 times greater than non-Serzone users.

Serious Risks: Increased Depression and Suicidal Impulses

Antidepressants like Serzone have been found to have the potential to increase the severity of depression and suicidal tendencies in some people. The FDA directed all manufacturers of antidepressants such as Serzone to include a recommendation on their labels for the close observation of child and adult users of the medication for any sign of increased depression or suicidal tendencies.

Serzone – Getting Legal Help

Even if most medicines are expected to have side effects, it is the duty of the manufacturer of these medicines to inform the medical community and the public of known risks associated with the drugs they produce. Failure to give adequate warning to the public and the medical community of the dangers of the drug makes the manufacturer liable under product liability for any injury that may be caused by their product.

If you or your loved one has suffered any of the dangerous symptoms or unusual reaction after taking Serzone, go to your doctor or the hospital as soon as possible. You may also consider consulting with an experienced attorney in order to get more information regarding your rights and possible remedies for the injuries you suffered because of the use of Serzone.